Modern Cooking and Plating Workshop

This class is for the serious food enthusiast! ICE Boot Camps give you the opportunity to learn how to cook like the pros. This four-day Boot Camp focuses on classic cooking techniques, to give you the foundations that will make you a better cook. On day one, you will learn how to properly sauté meats, vegetables and potatoes and look for the signs of "doneness." Pan sauces will also be covered. On day two, we will focus on grilling. You will learn the methods for grilling a variety of meats and why specific cuts and types of meat are best suited for this cooking method. Best practices for grilling various vegetables will also be taught, along with the art of marinades. On day three we will cover roasting techniques for various types of meats and veggies. You will also learn the simple pleasures of preparing reduction sauces. On the final day, we will cover moist-heat cooking methods. The topics will be braising as well as poaching and steaming to create delicious results. These gentle cooking methods result in moist and delicious meats as well as fish, shellfish and vegetables.

Do you need an antidote for the cold weather? Can that antidote never be too rich or too flavorful? How about spending a whole evening with lush red wines from around the world and hearty cheeses that match them? Richard Vayda, ICE's director of wine studies, will discuss cheesemaking and cheese service, as well as red wine and food pairing, as you sip and eat the evening away. We'll taste at least eight wines, plus matching cheeses.

Provence is a gastronomic paradise where French techniques meet Mediterranean elements like garlic, basil, olives, lavender and honey. Throughout this enchanting evening, you will learn essential techniques to make simple and aromatic dishes that burst with flavor. On your menu will be: brandade de morue; chicken with potatoes, rosemary, olives and lemon; bouillabaisse with rouille and vegetable tian.

The flavorful cuisine of Cuba reflects the country’s Spanish, African and Caribbean influences. From cooling ceviche to hearty ropa vieja, these influences manifest themselves in an array of seafood and meat preparations, not to mention unforgettable side dishes that will make you wonder why you didn't cook Cuban sooner. You will make ropa vieja (shredded flank steak in tomato sauce); pescado enchilado (sea bass in sofrito); frijoles negros (black beans Cuban-style); rice and tostones (savory fried plantains).